On February 23, we observe National Chili Day, a time to pay homage to the legendary dish that both unites and divides people.
On February 23, we observe National Chili Day, a time to pay homage to the legendary dish that both unites and divides people. Chili is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, as well as the ultimate dish for cook-offs. Family recipes are guarded as if they were crown jewels, and secret ingredients are never revealed in a voice louder than a whisper. And the debates over what constitutes authentic chilli — beans or no beans — are heated. All of these, however, contribute to chili’s unique experience. Everyone gathers at the table when chilli is served, perhaps with chopped onions and shredded cheese on top.
On February 23, we observe National Chili Day, a time to pay homage to the legendary dish that both unites and divides people. Chili is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, as well as the ultimate dish for cook-offs. Family recipes are guarded as if they were crown jewels, and secret ingredients are never revealed in a voice louder than a whisper. And the debates over what constitutes authentic chilli — beans or no beans — are heated. All of these, however, contribute to chili’s unique experience. Everyone gathers at the table when chilli is served, perhaps with chopped onions and shredded cheese on top. Secret chilli recipes are delicious and the stuff of legend. The dish’s mind-boggling variety ensures that you will never tyre of showing up at a friend’s house and hearing that chilli is being served. And chilli has spawned one of the most heated food debates: should beans be included in chilli? The ultimate comfort food is chilli. The moment you open the door and inhale its spicy aroma, you begin to feel better. Holding a steaming bowl of it in your hands is a prerequisite for a perfect culinary experience. Everyone enjoys chilli night. It is informal, comfortable, and a time for people to congregate.
Perhaps your go-to recipe is in your head, or perhaps it’s in your favourite cookbook. Perhaps you need to call your mother to receive detailed instructions. Regardless of how the chilli is placed on the stove, get it there and then enjoy a steaming bowl of the good stuff.
Every single person, and we mean every single person, has a chilli recipe. So invite everyone over for a chilli cook-off. The competition will be fierce, but your appetites will be equally so.
Everyone, including the chefs of your favourite restaurants, has a chilli recipe. Determine which restaurants in your area serve chilli, and conduct your own version of a progressive dinner to determine your favourite. On National Chili Day the following year, you will know where to go.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | February 25 | Thursday |
| 2022 | February 24 | Thursday |
| 2023 | February 23 | Thursday |
| 2024 | February 22 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 27 | Thursday |
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